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Western or Arfak parotia, Parotia sefilata
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Western or Arfak parotia, Parotia sefilata
Western or Arfak parotia, Parotia sefilata.. Handcolored copperplate engraving from The Naturalists Pocket Magazine, Harrison, London, 1800
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Media ID 14212230
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
Georgeedwards Naturalistspocketmagazine
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This exquisite handcolored copperplate engraving showcases the Western Parotia, Parotia sefilata, also known as the Arfak Parotia, a captivating bird-of-paradise species native to the Western New Guinea region. The intricately detailed illustration, published in The Naturalist's Pocket Magazine in Harrison, London, around the year 1800, highlights the bird's distinctive plumage and unique physical features. The Western Parotia is renowned for its elaborate courtship display, which includes six elongated, wire-like feathers on its head that it uses to entice females. These feathers, which are not present during normal flight or rest, are believed to have inspired the myth of the "bird of a thousand wires." The vibrant colors and intricate patterns depicted in this engraving accurately represent the Western Parotia's natural appearance, providing a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the region. The illustration's creation was a testament to the skill and dedication of the natural history artists and engravers of the time. Handcolored copperplate engravings, such as this one, were considered the pinnacle of accuracy and detail in the field of zoological illustration. The Naturalist's Pocket Magazine, which published this image, was an essential resource for naturalists, collectors, and scholars, providing a valuable record of the natural world and contributing significantly to the advancement of zoological knowledge during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This image offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of zoological illustration and the rich biodiversity of the Western New Guinea region. The Western Parotia, with its striking appearance and intriguing courtship display, continues to captivate ornithologists, naturalists, and bird enthusiasts alike, making this illustration a valuable addition to any collection of historical natural history art.
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